Event Information

What is the Jim Blanchard Leadership Forum?

Founded in 2005, the Jim Blanchard Leadership Forum, hosted by the Leadership Institute at Columbus State University, is the premier leadership event in the region and offers an intimate setting with some of the world's foremost leaders. Held annually the last Monday and Tuesday in August, the event draws more than 1,200 attendees. The Forum is named in honor of Jim Blanchard, the retired chairman and chief executive officer of Synovus Financial Corp., which is headquartered in Columbus. His vision was to bring the best and brightest minds in the world to Columbus, Georgia.

When will the 2018 Jim Blanchard Leadership Forum be held?

The event will be Monday-Tuesday, August 27-28, 2018 at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center.

Where can I find additional information about the event?

Tickets

I only purchased one seat. Why do I have three tickets?

We have divided the event into three parts: Monday afternoon, Monday night and Tuesday. Each part is color coded and labeled on the ticket (navy for Monday afternoon, red for Monday night and light blue for Tuesday). This allows an attendee to split admission with another person by giving him or her a physical ticket. Note: you must show a ticket for each part at the door for admission.

Do I need a ticket?

Yes. Only those with tickets are permitted. You must show a ticket for each part of the event (navy for Monday afternoon, red for Monday night and light blue for Tuesday). Table numbers are on the tickets, so please keep it with you at all times for seating and security.

How do I purchase tickets for the event?

Is there a multi-ticket discount?

There is a small discount if you purchase a table of 8.

Is there a discount for college students, military, senior citizens, etc.?

No.

When will I receive my ticket?

If you are an individual purchaser, your ticket will be at Will Call by last name the day of the event. If your company purchased a table, you should have received an email asking about your Will Call preferences.

Do you offer refunds for tickets purchased?

No, tickets are non-refundable but are transferrable. We have divided the event into three parts: Monday afternoon, Monday night and Tuesday. Each part is color coded and labeled on the ticket (navy for Monday afternoon, red for Monday night and light blue for Tuesday). This allows an attendee to transfer tickets to another person. Note: you must show a ticket for each part at the door for admission.

I purchased a ticket and am unable to attend. May I transfer my ticket?

Yes, you may give your ticket to someone if you are unable to attend. We have divided the event into three parts: Monday afternoon, Monday night and Tuesday. Each part is color coded and labeled on the ticket (navy for Monday afternoon, red for Monday night and light blue for Tuesday). This allows an attendee to transfer tickets to another person. Note: you must show a ticket for each part at the door for admission.

Do I have reserved seating?

Yes, your ticket will have a table number on it.

How will I know where to sit?

Your ticket will have your table number on it. You must sit at your assigned table, as there are no extra seats available. If you enter after the program has begun, please go to your assigned table. There is no open seating.

Are children allowed?

It is not recommended that children under 13 attend this event.

Before the Event

What is the dress code?

Business attire is recommended.

Is the venue typically warm or cool?

With the production elements and number of attendees, the event space tends to be cool. We suggest that you bring a jacket to use as needed.

What do I need to bring to the event?

All you need to bring is your event ticket, if you’ve already received it. We will provide clear bags, pens and an event program. Large bags, purses and computer bags may be subject to security screening.

Will there be nametags?

We will have paper nametags available, but you are encouraged to wear your company or business name badge.

When should I arrive at the venue?

Registration opens Monday at 12 pm and the program begins at 1 pm.

Will you provide lunch on Monday?

No, we do not provide lunch on Monday. Please make arrangements to eat before you come. Note, no outside food or drinks may be brought into the Ballrooms at the Trade Center.

Is valet parking available?

Valet parking is available in partnership with AT&T. Cars may be dropped off on the curb, in front of the Trade Center.

What if I want to self-park?

Self-parking is available in the Trade Center parking deck. The facility has wheelchairs available for those who have difficulty walking, as the facility is quite large.

Is the event handicap accessible?

The facility has ramps and wheelchairs are available through the Trade Center office if you have difficulty walking. The facility is quite large and there can be a lot of walking to and from the banquet room.

Is there an event app?

Yes, the event is on the Attendify app, available through Google Play and Apple App stores. Once you download Attendify, search for “Jim Blanchard Leadership Forum.” We encourage you to download the app in advance to receive real-time agenda updates and special notifications.

During the Event

Is there a security screening?

If you arrive with large bags, purses and computer bags, you may be subject to a screening process. You should maintain possession of your ticket at all times for security reasons.

Are cameras and recording devices allowed during the presentations?

Flash photography and recording devices are not allowed, per speaker contracts.

Will there be Internet available?

Wi-Fi is available through the Trade Center office for $10. Otherwise, Internet access will be available through your mobile carrier and device.

Is the event on social media?

Yes! The event has Facebook and Instagram pages. The Leadership Institute at Columbus State University is on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn. We encourage participants to engage through social media throughout the conference.

What is the event hashtag?

#JBLF

What if I have a dietary restriction?

There will be a dietary restrictions card available at Will Call in the main lobby. Please place the card in front of your plate so the servers will be aware. Breakfast and lunch are buffets with a variety of options.

Will there be book signings?

Yes. Please consult your program at the event for a listing of specific authors and times.

What forms of payment do the book sellers accept?

Cash, check, credit and debit cards.

Are there opportunities to purchase DVDs?

Unfortunately not. Speaker contracts do not allow recording for resale.

After the Event

Can I get Continuing Education credits?

Yes, we will send you a certificate with the hours of credit that you have earned through your attendance after the Forum upon request.

Will I have the opportunity to give feedback and suggest future speakers?